Renting in Brighton and Hove — your rights as a tenant in 2026
Brighton has one of the most competitive rental markets in England, with very high demand and limited supply. Rents are comparable to outer London boroughs. The rental bidding ban will be particularly welcome here.
£1,500
Average monthly rent
50,000 households
Private renter households
Common issues for Brighton and Hove renters
⚠Extremely high rents
⚠Fierce competition for properties
⚠Unfair tenancy terms
⚠Deposit disputes
⚠HMO overcrowding
How the Renters' Rights Act affects Brighton and Hove
From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 brings major changes for every private tenant in Brighton and Hove. Here's what matters most:
No-fault evictions abolished. Your landlord can no longer use Section 21 to evict you without a reason. They must prove a valid ground under Section 8.
Rent increases limited. Your landlord can only increase rent once per year, via a formal Section 13 notice with 2 months' warning. You can challenge unfair increases at a tribunal.
Periodic tenancies for all. All tenancies become rolling month-to-month. You can leave with 2 months' notice at any time — no more being locked into a fixed term.
Right to request a pet. Blanket pet bans are no longer enforceable. Your landlord must consider your request fairly.
Rental bidding banned. Landlords must advertise a set price and cannot accept offers above it.
Your local council
Brighton & Hove City Council
Environmental Health / Private Renting Team: 01273 290000
If your landlord is not maintaining your property, your deposit is not protected, or you are being threatened with illegal eviction, contact your council's Environmental Health team. They have the power to inspect properties, issue improvement notices, and prosecute landlords who fail to comply.
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